(TRENTON) – Legislation Assembly Democrats Angel Fuentes, Albert Coutinho, Angelica Jimenez and John Burzichelli sponsored to create a five-year pilot program that allows private entities to fund public policy needs through pay-for-success contracts was released Thursday by an Assembly panel.

The bill (A-3289) seeks to attract private funding for public programs aimed at reducing the cost of providing health care to low-income and uninsured residents. The Economic Development Authority (EDA) would administer the program and oversee a study commission established by the bill. If the cost-saving goals outlined by the study commission are met, backers will receive a return on their investment in what has been called Social Impact Bonds.

“Providing adequate healthcare to our neediest residents can be costly to service providers, governments and residents,” said Fuentes (D-Camden/Gloucester). “This bill seeks to reduce healthcare costs in the long run while increasing the wellness of our residents without raising taxes…”